Abbott Laboratories Announces Jeffrey M. Leiden To Step Down

ABBOTT PARK, Ill., March 21 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Abbott today announced that Jeffrey M. Leiden, M.D., Ph.D., intends to step down as president and chief operating officer, pharmaceutical products group, to pursue other career interests. Richard A. Gonzalez, currently president and chief operating officer, medical products group, will assume the role of president and chief operating officer for all operations of the corporation, effective March 27. Leadership of pharmaceutical operating divisions and research and development organizations will report to Mr. Gonzalez.

"Jeff has made significant contributions to our Pharmaceutical Products Group and we wish him well in his new endeavors," said Miles D. White, chairman and chief executive officer, Abbott.

"Rick is a 29-year Abbott veteran, and an exceptional leader with a proven record of achievement," said Mr. White. "He has created a portfolio of global medical products businesses that is delivering double-digit growth; built a strong medical products pipeline; and attracted and developed an impressive leadership team. I have great confidence that Rick will lead the organization to take advantage of the many opportunities in both areas of our business."

About Abbott

Abbott is a global, broad-based health care company devoted to the discovery, development, manufacture and marketing of pharmaceuticals and medical products, including nutritionals, devices and diagnostics. The company employs 60,000 people and markets its products in more than 130 countries.

Abbott's news releases and other information are available on the company's Web site at http://www.abbott.com .

Abbott

CONTACT: Media, Melissa Brotz, +1-847-935-3456, or Financial Community,John Thomas, +1-847-938-2655, both of Abbott

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